Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill

Written evidence submitted by Jonathan Pearce, owner of OZ Schoolwear LTD (CWSB116)

Concerns Regarding the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill

Dear Members of Parliament,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Jon and I am the owner of OZ Schoolwear LTD, a retail business specialising in school uniforms since 1985. I am writing to raise my concerns regarding the proposed Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, particularly the legislation that aims to limit the number of branded items schools may require.

I would like to draw your attention to several critical aspects that warrant consideration:

1. Existing Contracts:

Many schools are currently bound by contracts with their uniform suppliers, often requiring 18 months to 2 years' notice for any changes. In some cases, these contracts may stipulate even longer terms. If the bill induces a mandatory change in uniform by 2026, there will be considerable financial ramifications. Schools would likely have to absorb the costs of purchasing remaining stock, which could be a significant expense not accounted for in their budgets.

Additionally, the fate of unsold uniform stock raises environmental concerns. Disposing of uniforms that can no longer be sold contributes to landfill waste, contradicting our industry's commitment to eco-friendly practices. The major manufacturers within our sector are diligently working on sustainable solutions; however, the proposed legislation threatens to undermine these efforts.

2. Economic Impact:

This bill may lead to substantial job losses and business closures within the schoolwear sector. A recent survey conducted by the Schoolwear Association indicated that 31% of respondents might consider shutting their businesses, and 88% would be forced to lay off staff. As a small business owner employing seven people, the impact of this legislation would compel me to make at least two redundancies, affecting their livelihoods and well-being.

3. Understanding the Industry:

I urge you to engage with members of the schoolwear industry and gather insights on how these changes would affect us practically. Have discussions been held with teachers or PE departments? These groups will be directly impacted, especially by modifications to PE uniforms.

For example, at Meopham School in Gravesend, Kent, the decision to drop a designated PE kit in favour of plain black clothing led to unintended consequences. Students arrived wearing a variety of branded sportswear, which not only created economic divides among students but also hindered participation in physical activities. After repeated reminders from the school, they were compelled to revert to a specified PE uniform to ensure equal opportunity for all students.

4. Children’s Wellbeing:

While the intention behind this legislation may be to promote children's wellbeing, I want to stress that it could have the opposite effect. School uniforms play a vital role in fostering a sense of community and belonging among students. They create an environment where all children, regardless of their background, are presented on an equal playing field.

The removal or significant alteration of uniform policies could inadvertently contribute to increased disparities among students, leading to heightened feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. In an educational setting where individuality is sometimes highlighted through clothing, uniforms serve as a unifying factor that binds students together, enhancing their sense of identity within the school community.

Moreover, the repercussions on mental health cannot be overlooked. The NHS is already grappling with rising mental health issues among children and adolescents. By opening the door to a lack of uniformity in school attire, we may inadvertently exacerbate feelings of exclusion and competition among students, which could lead to further mental health challenges.

We must consider the potential impact on the emotional well-being of our children. Uniforms not only minimize distractions in the classroom but also help to reduce bullying and peer pressure associated with clothing choices.

If the aim is truly to enhance children's wellbeing, it is essential to recognise and support the role uniforms play in promoting inclusivity, community, and mental health stability within schools. Although you are attempting to save parents money you can’t put a value on a child’s mental health.

Thank you for your attention to this critical aspect of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. I urge you to reconsider the implications of any changes regarding school uniform policies and to engage with educators, parents, and industry experts in the process.

I appreciate your commitment to the wellbeing of our children and look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Jon Pearce

Operations Director

OZ Schoolwear LTD

January 2025